Chapter 306 Cunxu Selects a Concubine
Chapter 306 Cunxu Selects a Concubine
The gentle breeze of early spring brings a touch of hope and anticipation.
Li Cunxu was possessed by the god of war, and Zhu Wen, the commissar who relieved the siege of Luzhou, suffered a heavy blow.
The Battle of Luzhou marked a significant chapter in history, with 3 Shatuo cavalrymen defeating Zhu Wen's 10-strong army, thus securing Jinyang, the base of the Jin army.
Taking advantage of the window of opportunity presented by his victories, Li Cunxu actively reorganized internal affairs and strengthened military preparedness, gradually restoring the strength of the Li Clan.
The area east of the river is temporarily peaceful and harmonious.
At the Prince of Jin's residence, Madam Cao was busy making arrangements in the main hall.
Today she was choosing a daughter-in-law, and her kind face was unusually joyful.
Countless crystal chandeliers hang inside the hall, each meticulously crafted by top artisans, their soft yet bright light illuminating the entire space.
The interior of the palace was decorated with unparalleled luxury. The floor was covered with wool carpets from Persia, which were soft and thick, making it feel like walking on clouds.
The walls around the room were adorned with numerous valuable paintings and calligraphies, all of which were rare treasures.
The screen is painted with a meticulous and colorful "Hundred Birds Paying Homage to the Phoenix" painting.
With its vibrant colors and exquisite details, it's as if a flock of celestial birds are truly dancing in the air.
A huge round table made of rosewood was placed in the center of the hall.
The table was filled with exquisite porcelain and jade artifacts, each a priceless treasure.
The chairs around the table are all inlaid with gold, and the backs are embroidered with golden phoenix patterns, symbolizing nobility and good fortune.
The maids, dressed in gorgeous silk gowns and carrying round fans, moved gracefully among the guests, serving tea and water with elegant manners.
The air was filled with a faint sandalwood scent, which was refreshing and pleasant.
The melodious sounds of string and bamboo instruments drifted from inside the mansion, as several musicians played the guzheng and pipa.
The melody is melodious and moving, as if it takes people into a dreamlike fairyland.
Inside the main hall of the Prince of Jin's mansion, sunlight streamed through the carved window lattices, casting a golden glow on the floor.
Li Cunxu's mother, Madam Cao, sat in the main seat, her expression solemn and dignified.
Her eyes revealed a hint of worry, but also a mother's deep expectations for her son.
Several maids stood on either side, carrying tea sets and snacks, their movements light and silent.
"My child, you have come."
"Madam Cao said softly, her gaze tenderly fixed on Li Cunxu who walked in through the door," she said.
Li Cunxu strode forward and knelt on one knee: "Mother, your son pays his respects."
"Get up, no need for formalities."
Madam Cao waved her hand. "I called you here today because there is an important matter I want to discuss with you."
Li Cunxu stood up, feeling a vague unease in his heart.
He knew that his mother's visit this time was definitely not a trivial matter.
“My child, you are already twenty-four years old. It’s really not right for you not to get married soon.”
Madam Cao sighed, her tone tinged with helplessness.
"You are the Prince of Jin, and you need a wise and capable wife to assist you in governing the country and managing the affairs of the household."
Li Cunxu frowned slightly, clearly uninterested in this:
“Mother, I understand your feelings, but I have no plans to get married at the moment. I am too busy with military affairs to think about such things.”
Madam Cao shook her head:
“My son, this is not something to be taken lightly. As the Prince of Jin, you need a capable companion.”
I have already selected several beautiful and talented women for you. They all come from prestigious families, are of impeccable character, and are perfectly worthy of you.
As she spoke, Madam Cao clapped her hands lightly, and several maids immediately led over a group of beautiful women.
They were dressed in gorgeous clothes, with elegant manners, beautiful faces, and each had a different temperament.
The first woman was named Wanyi. She was gentle and refined, with graceful manners and intelligent eyes.
The second one is named Suxin. She is beautiful and has a gentle demeanor, just like a blooming orchid.
The third one is named Yaohua. She is dignified and poised, with a steady demeanor, and appears exceptionally mature and composed.
The last one was named Yuqin. She was lively and cheerful, with a bright smile, giving people a friendly feeling.
Li Cunxu glanced at it, his brows furrowed, clearly uninterested:
“Mother, I know your good intentions, but this is a lifelong matter, and I hope I can make the decision myself.”
Madam Cao nodded, a hint of understanding flashing in her eyes:
“My child, I know you have concerns. But you should also understand that as the heir to the Prince of Jin, there are many things you cannot do as you please.”
Marriage is not only about personal happiness, but also about the future of the family and the stability of the nation.
Li Cunxu remained silent for a moment, not wanting to dampen the enthusiasm of the assembled ministers who were watching.
Moreover, Li Cunxu was a very filial son and, not wanting to embarrass his mother, finally nodded in agreement.
“Mother, I understand. How about we have these ladies play the piano and dance, and see if we can get to know each other?”
When the mother heard that her son had agreed, she immediately arranged for Suxin, Yaohua, and Yuqin to play the piano and dance.
Inside the main hall of the Prince of Jin's residence, the air was filled with the fragrance of sandalwood, and the candlelight flickered.
Madam Cao sat in the main seat, her eyes filled with anticipation and a hint of nervousness.
Li Cunxu stood to the side, his brows slightly furrowed, his mind filled with a myriad of thoughts.
The four beauties stepped forward one by one, ready to showcase their talents.
First was Su Xin, who gracefully walked to the center of the hall with light, delicate steps.
Accompanied by the melodious sounds of traditional Chinese string and wind instruments, Jasmine began to dance gracefully.
Her dance was graceful and her movements were light, like a blooming orchid swaying gently in the wind.
Li Cunxu's gaze, however, seemed somewhat unfocused, as if he was not fully immersed in it.
"What a gentle and graceful lady."
Madam Cao nodded slightly, a satisfied smile on her face.
However, there was no change in Li Cunxu's eyes.
Next is Yaohua, who is dignified, poised, and composed.
Yaohua walked to the zither stand, gently plucked the strings, and played a piece called "High Mountains and Flowing Water".
The sound of the zither was crisp and melodious, as moving as a babbling brook.
Yao Hua's skillful performance drew admiration from everyone present.
But Li Cunxu couldn't help but recall Qiu Ziyue's zither music—
It was a profound and exquisite beauty, brimming with emotion and soul.
In contrast, Yaohua's zither playing, though exquisite, lacked that liveliness and deep emotion.
Li Cunxu's brows furrowed involuntarily.
Wanyi danced a court celebration dance, which was festive and lively, and refreshing, but Li Cunxu still felt it was a bit vulgar.
Finally, there's Yuqin, who is lively, cheerful, and has a bright smile.
Yuqin danced a cheerful dance, her movements light and full of energy, like a happy little bird.
Her dance moves attracted everyone's attention, and everyone cheered for her.
However, memories of Qiu Ziyue's dance surged in Li Cunxu's mind—
It was a dreamlike beauty, every movement filled with poetry and emotion.
These four beauties, despite their outstanding talents, were far less than one ten-thousandth of Qiu Ziyue in Li Cunxu's heart.
After the presentation, Madam Cao nodded in satisfaction:
"The girls are all very talented. What do you think?"
After a moment of silence, Li Cunxu finally decided to tell the truth:
"Mother, I really have a hard time choosing."
Madam Cao was slightly taken aback, then asked:
"Why do I say that? These girls are all exceptional candidates."
Li Cunxu took a deep breath and slowly said:
"Mother, I already have someone I like in my heart."
Madam Cao's expression changed slightly, and her tone carried a hint of surprise:
"You already have someone you like?"
Li Cunxu nodded:
"Yes, Mother. Her music and her dance are far superior to those of the people before me. Whenever I think of her, I feel delighted."
Madam Cao frowned, clearly surprised by this:
"Then why have you never mentioned her?"
Li Cunxu said in a low voice:
“I have always felt that the time is not right and I am worried that I will disappoint my mother’s expectations.”
Madam Cao remained silent for a while, then finally sighed:
"Alright, child, I respect your choice. But could you bring that girl into the manor so I can see her?"
Li Cunxu stated firmly:
“I understand, Mother. I will bring her to you as soon as possible so that she may be put to your test.”
Madam Cao nodded:
"I hope you can make the right choice. After all, as the heir to the throne of Jin, you need a partner who can assist you in governing the country."
Li Cunxu bowed again:
"I understand, Mother. Please rest assured, I will not let you down."
As the conversation ended, Madam Cao waved for the maids to leave.
Li Cunxu turned and left the main hall, his heart filled with longing and anticipation for Qiu Ziyue.
Madam Cao sighed:
"Alright, son, I respect your decision. But remember, time waits for no one, so it's best to consider this matter as soon as possible."
To be continued in the next chapter!
si-mexico